Q:  We have been thinking of selling our home.  Can you give us some tips to help us get started?

A:  First impressions are important, especially when you’re marketing your home.  You need to look at your home from a different perspective and set the stage for your prospective buyers.

One of the most important aspect of your Realtor’s job is to be honest with you.  This may be an uncomfortable process for both of you in the beginning but an invaluable process if done with candor.  Shed your sensitivities and let your realtor do a thorough job from the start.

Evaluate the curb appeal of your home.  Start at the driveway and note every detail from the cleanliness of the driveway to the condition of the landscaping.  Ask questions such as; does your home need power washing, paint or the windows cleaned?  Is the front door fresh and clean?  Walk around and make a list of everything that needs to be taken care of. 

Once inside your home you will want to look at everything.  Scrutinize the walls and flooring to start.  Does the carpet need to be cleaned?  Could the walls use a fresh coat of paint?  Have those beautiful hardwood floors lost their luster?  If you have answered yes to any of these questions, you should address each issue before you begin to show your home. 

The next job to tackle is clutter.  Look at counter tops, kitchen drawers, closets and pantries.  The general rule of thumb is to get rid of at least half of the clutter.

You may want to rent a storage unit while your home is on the market.  This can help give your home a very tidy appearance to potential buyers.  Keep in mind that your goal is to market your home in such a manner that you will receive top dollar when sold.

Once you’ve tackled the obvious you can begin setting the stage.  Candles or potpourri are recommended to give your home an inviting scent.  Elegant place setting on the dining room table are also a nice touch.  The task at hand is to allow the potential buyer to see and feel what your home has to offer.  If you are unsure of how to accomplish this, there are professionals who can help. 

The benefits from this painstaking process can be tremendous.  If your home is a pleasure to show, real estate agents will be proud to introduce your home to potential buyers.  The confidence inspired by a well maintained home can be seen in the serious offers received from buyers and fewer days on the market.